https://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.png00Sabitrehttps://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.pngSabitre2023-01-12 22:00:002023-01-12 22:00:0001/12/2023 “Who Am I Really?” with Seth Castleman
To download this talk, right-click and select ‘save audio as’ or select the 3-dot menu to the right of the speaker icon.
One of the main characteristics of delusion is being totally identified as a Special Me. Starting with our name, our history, and our self-image, all of these enable us to solidify the sense that we are living a separate, subtly significant and special life. Interestingly, our feeling of specialness is not just from having positive qualities; our suffering too can also make us feel unique. “I am the most victimized”, “I never lived up to my potential” “No one understands me” and so many other self-narratives create a Special Me. Not needing to be special, not needing to be any particular way, is what it means to be free—free to experience our most authentic self. Tonight, we will discuss the traditional methods for breaking thru this delusion, as well as some practical everyday exercises.
https://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.png00Sabitrehttps://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.pngSabitre2023-01-05 22:00:002023-01-05 22:00:0001/05/2023 “Who Am I If I Am Not Special?” with Diane Wilde
Jan 5th sitting meditation and dharma talk switched to ZOOM-Only
Due to the hazardous weather conditions anticipated over the next 24 hours, the Thursday, January 5th, 2023 regularly scheduled evening sitting meditation and dharma talk presentation by Diane Wilde will be held only on-line beginning at 7 pm. The SIM Board of Directors has cancelled the in-person part of the meeting.
https://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.png00Sabitrehttps://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.pngSabitre2023-01-04 23:00:002023-01-04 23:00:00NOTICE: 1/5/23 Sit & Dharma Talk Switched to ZOOM Only
Did you contribute to this year’s Adopt-a-Family fundraiser? Vicki has an update to share with us!
SIM’s fifth fundraiser for St. John’s came to a close on December 2, 2022. Despite this year’s inflation and down turning market SIM’s caring community shined brightly in generosity, raising a five year high of $1,572. That didn’t even include dana that was received after the online donation window closed. Funds for St. John totaled close to $2,000 all together. Due to our munificent budget, we were able to sponsor eight people instead of four or five. In addition we were able to supply St. John’s 26 additional $25 Target gift cards to help other families have a bountiful Christmas. Deepest gratitude to you all.
Mary Howard and I did the shopping in early December. This is the second year Mary has joined for the shopping, making it even more fun and joyful. This year we “adopted” two single women, a mom and her teen age girl, and a mom with three children, ranging in age from 8 years to one year old. Rather than list everything, the “shopping elves” procured a balance of fun, educational, and practical gifts. We were able to provide some needed items that are more expensive such as high quality work boots and a convertible car seat for a family that is very close to graduating from the program at St. John’s.
We brought the gifts to St. John’s on December 9th. This has consistently been a wonderful experience as Karen Edwards, head of the fundraising program is a very kind and gracious person who makes one feel how appreciated and valued this support is.
That being said, please receive this deep bow of gratitude to our generous Sangha and teachers, and a special thanks to Sabitre Rodriguez, Sara Denzler, and Mary Howard. Wishing all of you a peaceful, happy, and love filled holidays.
https://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.png00Sabitrehttps://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.pngSabitre2022-12-27 18:00:002022-12-27 18:00:00Update on gifts for St. Johns
To download this talk, right-click and select ‘save audio as’ or select the 3-dot menu to the right of the speaker icon.
As the days wane and the nights get longer, Rich will bring reflections on the “greatest blessings” from the Maha-Mangala Sutta (Sutta Nipata 2.4). This beloved sutta reminds us that, even in the midst of loss and grief, our ordinary lives contain so many sources of happiness. In balancing our awareness of suffering with the uplifting conditions in life, we come closer to seeing things as they are. This awareness provides a balance to our daily life practice and a motivation for skillful action in the world. While not usually repeating topics, Rich finds this sutta to be a favorite at this season, connecting the gratitude of Thanksgiving and the reflection of New Year’s, not to mention the gift-giving spirit of Christmas and Hannukah. Rich last offered reflections on this sutta six years ago, as we moved into the Sacramento Dharma Center, and two years ago, when we returned to the SDC after the COVID-19 lockdown. As we celebrate 20 years of SIM, let’s bring these blessings to mind again.
https://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.png00Sabitrehttps://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.pngSabitre2022-12-22 22:00:002022-12-22 22:00:0012/22/2022 “The Greatest Blessing: Maha-Mangala Sutta” with Rich Howard
To download this talk, right-click and select ‘save audio as’ or select the 3-dot menu to the right of the speaker icon.
It seems obvious that one of the foundations of practice is paying careful attention to our experience. What paying attention means from a Buddhist perspective, however, may not be so obvious. The answers to the What? and How? of paying attention are closely linked with the purposefulness of practice; our intention in practicing; and the short and long-term consequences (karma) of how and to what we pay attention. This evening will be a practical, working exploration of these issues from the standpoint of Buddhist psychology, teachings and methods. The subject matter of this evening is appropriate for all stages of practice.
https://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.png00Sabitrehttps://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.pngSabitre2022-12-15 22:00:002022-12-15 22:00:0012/15/2022 “Revisiting Fundamentals: Paying Attention – What? And How?” with Dennis Warren
To download this talk, right-click and select ‘save audio as’ or select the 3-dot menu to the right of the speaker icon.
We will discuss Right Thought, often called Right Intention, which is the second factor of the Noble Eightfold Path (after Right View). In one sutta, usually translated as “Two Kinds of Thought” (MN 19), the Buddha said that before his enlightenment he realized he could divide his thoughts into “two classes” as either: thoughts of sensual desire, ill and cruelty OR thoughts of renunciation, non-ill will and non-cruelty. He then saw that the first class of thought led to affliction for himself and others, while the other class did not. Pondering this helped lead him on to his eventual liberation. He concluded this discourse by telling his audience that “the safe and good path to be traveled joyfully has been reopened by me.”
https://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.png00Sabitrehttps://sactoinsight.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/SIM-logo-trans.pngSabitre2022-12-08 22:00:002022-12-08 22:00:0012/08/2022 “Right Thought as a Key to Happiness” with Walt Opie
To download this talk, right-click and select ‘save audio as’ or select the 3-dot menu to the right of the speaker icon.
Sacramento Insight Meditation is celebrating 20 years as a sangha! We have come a long way since the start in 2002 and will be commemorating the anniversary at a special event on December 1, 2022. Our esteemed teachers, Dennis Warren, Diane Wilde, Rich Howard, and special guest, John Travis, will be there in person to share memories of their involvement in SIM. Kamala Masters and Steve Armstrong will also be joining us via Zoom. The meditation portion of the evening will be shortened a bit to have time for cake and tea afterwards. This will also be an opportunity to socialize with one another.
A Seven Week Course and One Day Retreat with SIM’s Founding Teacher Dennis Warren
This course will be not offered in 203. It was previously scheduled to run October 11 through November 21, 2023.
Currently the 2024 schedule isn’t determined so registration to the 2024 course isn’t open yet. If you’d like us to notify you via email when registration opens, use the form below to submit an RSVP. Your RSVP does not register you to the course, nor does it save a place in any type of registration queue.
Our popular six-week Beginning Meditation Course begins Wednesday, Jan 18th with Rich Howard and Sara Denzler instructing. For more information, click on the flyer image or visit the registration page at https://sactoinsight.org/event/beginning-meditation-jan2023/.
01/12/2023 “Who Am I Really?” with Seth Castleman
Audio DharmaWhat does the dharma tell us about the nature of self? Who are we as spiritual seekers in this precious life?
01/05/2023 “Who Am I If I Am Not Special?” with Diane Wilde
Audio DharmaOne of the main characteristics of delusion is being totally identified as a Special Me. Starting with our name, our history, and our self-image, all of these enable us to solidify the sense that we are living a separate, subtly significant and special life. Interestingly, our feeling of specialness is not just from having positive qualities; our suffering too can also make us feel unique. “I am the most victimized”, “I never lived up to my potential” “No one understands me” and so many other self-narratives create a Special Me. Not needing to be special, not needing to be any particular way, is what it means to be free—free to experience our most authentic self. Tonight, we will discuss the traditional methods for breaking thru this delusion, as well as some practical everyday exercises.
NOTICE: 1/5/23 Sit & Dharma Talk Switched to ZOOM Only
NewsImportant Announcement
Jan 5th sitting meditation and dharma talk switched to ZOOM-Only
Due to the hazardous weather conditions anticipated over the next 24 hours, the Thursday, January 5th, 2023 regularly scheduled evening sitting meditation and dharma talk presentation by Diane Wilde will be held only on-line beginning at 7 pm. The SIM Board of Directors has cancelled the in-person part of the meeting.
We look forwarded to having you join us at the Zoom meeting and wish you all may be safe and healthy.
Update on gifts for St. Johns
NewsSIM’s fifth fundraiser for St. John’s came to a close on December 2, 2022. Despite this year’s inflation and down turning market SIM’s caring community shined brightly in generosity, raising a five year high of $1,572. That didn’t even include dana that was received after the online donation window closed. Funds for St. John totaled close to $2,000 all together. Due to our munificent budget, we were able to sponsor eight people instead of four or five. In addition we were able to supply St. John’s 26 additional $25 Target gift cards to help other families have a bountiful Christmas. Deepest gratitude to you all.
Mary Howard and I did the shopping in early December. This is the second year Mary has joined for the shopping, making it even more fun and joyful. This year we “adopted” two single women, a mom and her teen age girl, and a mom with three children, ranging in age from 8 years to one year old. Rather than list everything, the “shopping elves” procured a balance of fun, educational, and practical gifts. We were able to provide some needed items that are more expensive such as high quality work boots and a convertible car seat for a family that is very close to graduating from the program at St. John’s.
We brought the gifts to St. John’s on December 9th. This has consistently been a wonderful experience as Karen Edwards, head of the fundraising program is a very kind and gracious person who makes one feel how appreciated and valued this support is.
That being said, please receive this deep bow of gratitude to our generous Sangha and teachers, and a special thanks to Sabitre Rodriguez, Sara Denzler, and Mary Howard. Wishing all of you a peaceful, happy, and love filled holidays.
Much Metta,
Vicki
12/22/2022 “The Greatest Blessing: Maha-Mangala Sutta” with Rich Howard
Audio DharmaAs the days wane and the nights get longer, Rich will bring reflections on the “greatest blessings” from the Maha-Mangala Sutta (Sutta Nipata 2.4). This beloved sutta reminds us that, even in the midst of loss and grief, our ordinary lives contain so many sources of happiness. In balancing our awareness of suffering with the uplifting conditions in life, we come closer to seeing things as they are. This awareness provides a balance to our daily life practice and a motivation for skillful action in the world.
While not usually repeating topics, Rich finds this sutta to be a favorite at this season, connecting the gratitude of Thanksgiving and the reflection of New Year’s, not to mention the gift-giving spirit of Christmas and Hannukah. Rich last offered reflections on this sutta six years ago, as we moved into the Sacramento Dharma Center, and two years ago, when we returned to the SDC after the COVID-19 lockdown. As we celebrate 20 years of SIM, let’s bring these blessings to mind again.
12/15/2022 “Revisiting Fundamentals: Paying Attention – What? And How?” with Dennis Warren
Audio DharmaIt seems obvious that one of the foundations of practice is paying careful attention to our experience. What paying attention means from a Buddhist perspective, however, may not be so obvious.
The answers to the What? and How? of paying attention are closely linked with the purposefulness of practice; our intention in practicing; and the short and long-term consequences (karma) of how and to what we pay attention.
This evening will be a practical, working exploration of these issues from the standpoint of Buddhist psychology, teachings and methods.
The subject matter of this evening is appropriate for all stages of practice.
12/08/2022 “Right Thought as a Key to Happiness” with Walt Opie
Audio DharmaWe will discuss Right Thought, often called Right Intention, which is the second factor of the Noble Eightfold Path (after Right View). In one sutta, usually translated as “Two Kinds of Thought” (MN 19), the Buddha said that before his enlightenment he realized he could divide his thoughts into “two classes” as either: thoughts of sensual desire, ill and cruelty OR thoughts of renunciation, non-ill will and non-cruelty. He then saw that the first class of thought led to affliction for himself and others, while the other class did not. Pondering this helped lead him on to his eventual liberation. He concluded this discourse by telling his audience that “the safe and good path to be traveled joyfully has been reopened by me.”
12/01/2022 “20th Anniversary Celebration” with SIM Teachers
Audio DharmaSacramento Insight Meditation is celebrating 20 years as a sangha! We have come a long way since the start in 2002 and will be commemorating the anniversary at a special event on December 1, 2022. Our esteemed teachers, Dennis Warren, Diane Wilde, Rich Howard, and special guest, John Travis, will be there in person to share memories of their involvement in SIM. Kamala Masters and Steve Armstrong will also be joining us via Zoom. The meditation portion of the evening will be shortened a bit to have time for cake and tea afterwards. This will also be an opportunity to socialize with one another.
(Remote) Discovering Balance (7-week course)
ClassesOctober 11, 2023 @ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm PDT
A Seven Week Course and One Day Retreat with SIM’s Founding Teacher Dennis Warren
This course will be not offered in 203. It was previously scheduled to run October 11 through November 21, 2023.
Currently the 2024 schedule isn’t determined so registration to the 2024 course isn’t open yet. If you’d like us to notify you via email when registration opens, use the form below to submit an RSVP. Your RSVP does not register you to the course, nor does it save a place in any type of registration queue.
Remote Meeting Zoom
Beginning Meditation Course Starts January 2023
NewsOur popular six-week Beginning Meditation Course begins Wednesday, Jan 18th with Rich Howard and Sara Denzler instructing. For more information, click on the flyer image or visit the registration page at https://sactoinsight.org/event/beginning-meditation-jan2023/.